The Best Orzo Mac and Cheese with Bacon
Orzo Mac with Bacon is rich, creamy, and full of sharp cheddar flavor. It’s made in one pot in under 30 minutes with no roux, making it an easy comfort food dinner the whole family will love.
Servings: 6 Side Servings
Calories: 289kcal
Ingredients
- 4 slices bacon chopped
- 1 cup dry orzo
- 2 ½ cups chicken broth
- ½ cup milk or half and half
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- In a large deep skillet or pot, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside. Leave about 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the pan.
- Add orzo and toast for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring often, until lightly golden and smells nutty.
- Pour in chicken broth, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
- Bring to a gentle simmer. Cook uncovered for 8-10 minutes, stirring frequently, until tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Turn heat to low. Stir in shredded sharp cheddar until melted and creamy.
- Fold in crispy bacon. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
Storage:
- Refrigerate for up to 4 days
- Freeze for up to 2 months
- Reheat with a splash of milk in the microwave with a damp paper towel or on the stove
- Swap half cheddar for smoked Gouda
- Stir in chopped steamed broccoli or peas in at the end
- Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne for heat
- Stir often to prevent the orzo from sticking to the bottom
- Keep the heat at a gentle simmer as you're cooking the orzo
- Use freshly grated cheese for a smooth sauce
- Allow the orzo mac to sit for a minute before serving so it thickens up
Nutrition
Calories: 289kcal | Carbohydrates: 21g | Protein: 13g | Fat: 17g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Trans Fat: 0.02g | Cholesterol: 42mg | Sodium: 655mg | Potassium: 159mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 323IU | Vitamin C: 0.04mg | Calcium: 235mg | Iron: 1mg